There is some confusion on the rules of suspending play when lightning is observed. Can you please clarify the.rules? 15 minute vs 30 minute waiting period? How long to delay before calling the game? Does "heat lightning" (air to ground lightning that is far enough away so that no thunder is heard) count, or.must a bolt be seen?

Thanks.

There are no strict rules on lightning, much like there are no strict rules on ball field playing conditions. There are only guidelines and umpire judgment. We have always used 15 minutes as a guideline. No lightning in 15 minutes, play ball. ASA of PA President Jeff Sell suggested to me 20 minutes. USA Softball recommends a 30-minute wait.

I do believe there are different types of lightning and not all lightning strikes the ground. Again, it's an umpire judgment call.